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Andy Resnick submitted a new PF Insights post
Digital Camera Buyer's Guide: DSLR
Continue reading the Original PF Insights Post.
Digital Camera Buyer's Guide: DSLR
Continue reading the Original PF Insights Post.
A few reasons (by no means exhaustive) why the reflex mirror/optical viewfinder still survives today:DrClaude said:Nice Insight Andy.
One thing I wonder about is why there is still an "R" in DSLR, now that we don't use film. Is there any advantage to not having the sensor exposed all the time? I can't think of many disadvantages, like the mirror vibrations you discuss yourself.
Good question. If I understand you, the sensor can't be exposed all the time, because then there's no way to set an exposure time. Mirrorless cameras have an electronic mechanism to 'wipe' the sensor prior to an exposure, and the main advantage to mirrorless systems is as you say- there's no mirror that moves, not only reducing vibrations but also decreasing the distance between lens mount and sensor, allowing for smaller lenses. Mirrorless cameras can easily use lenses designed for rangefinder cameras.DrClaude said:Nice Insight Andy.
One thing I wonder about is why there is still an "R" in DSLR, now that we don't use film. Is there any advantage to not having the sensor exposed all the time? I can't think of many disadvantages, like the mirror vibrations you discuss yourself.
Wait, doesn't the EVF usually get fed by the image sensor itself?Andy Resnick said:On the other hand, mirrorless cameras have a decreased optical throughout, because some of the light is permanently re-directed to the (digital) viewfinder. I don't know exact numbers, but AFAIK, this represents about a half-stop of light lost.
olivermsun said:Wait, doesn't the EVF usually get fed by the image sensor itself?
That depicts the so-called SLT (Translucent instead of Reflex) configuration, used by Sony and previously by Canon to remove the need for flipping the mirror at a small cost to the light transmitted to the sensor. In other respects it is essentially the same as a traditional AF SLR and provides an optical viewfinder.Andy Resnick said:I expect different manufacturers have different approaches. Often, there is a pellicle beamsplitter that directs some light to the autofocus sensor:
https://qph.ec.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-4af617c02795fb9260f69dbaded8ddf9-c?convert_to_webp=true
olivermsun said:That depicts the so-called SLT (Translucent instead of Reflex) configuration, used by Sony and previously by Canon to remove the need for flipping the mirror at a small cost to the light transmitted to the sensor. In other respects it is essentially the same as a traditional AF SLR and provides an optical viewfinder.
Hmm, I don't understand why you chose this example then. The SLT is actually an SLR with a Pellicle mirror and an optical viewfinder, so it doesn't explain why mirrorless cameras should lose a fraction of a stop to the EVF.Andy Resnick said:Exactly.
olivermsun said:Hmm, I don't understand why you chose this example then. The SLT is actually an SLR with a Pellicle mirror and an optical viewfinder, so it doesn't explain why mirrorless cameras should lose a fraction of a stop to the EVF.
I think I got your point, but I am disagreeing that the "throughput" of a mirrorless camera has to be any different from that of a reflex or rangefinder camera.Andy Resnick said:I think you missed my point- my point is that the throughput is lower on a mirrorless camera as compared to either a reflex or rangefinder camera, it's less relevant where the re-directed light goes.
olivermsun said:I think I got your point, but I am disagreeing that the "throughput" of a mirrorless camera has to be any different from that of a reflex or rangefinder camera.
olivermsun said:The Sony A6xxx and A7 series are current mirrorless cameras with very similar sensors to several (e.g., Nikon) DSLRs, and they show low-light performance very comparable to same-format DSLRs. Olympus m4/3 cameras also perform just fine, with allowance for the smaller sensor size.
A DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera is a type of digital camera that uses a mirror and prism system to reflect light from the lens into the viewfinder, allowing you to see exactly what the lens sees. This makes it easier to compose your shots and get accurate focus. Additionally, DSLR cameras have larger image sensors and interchangeable lenses, allowing for higher quality images and more creative control over your photography.
When choosing a DSLR camera, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the camera's sensor size, as larger sensors typically produce higher quality images. Next, look at the camera's resolution, or number of megapixels, which affects the level of detail in your photos. Other important features to consider include autofocus capabilities, ISO range, and shooting speed.
It depends on your needs and preferences. DSLR cameras generally offer better image quality, more manual control over settings, and the ability to use interchangeable lenses. However, point-and-shoot cameras are often more compact and easier to use for casual photography. Consider your photography goals and budget when deciding between a DSLR and point-and-shoot camera.
The brand of a DSLR camera is not the most important factor, as there are many reputable brands that produce high-quality cameras. Instead, focus on the specific features and capabilities of the camera itself. It's also a good idea to read reviews and compare different models within your budget to find the best fit for your needs.
The necessary accessories for a DSLR camera will vary depending on your specific photography needs. However, some essential accessories may include lenses, a camera bag, extra batteries, and a tripod. Other useful accessories could include a flash, filters, and a remote shutter release. Research and consider what accessories would be most useful for your photography style and budget.